Computer Engineering

UC 17 0081-19

What is Computer Engineering?

Computer engineering involves the development of embedded and high-performance computers found in modern products. Computer engineers design hardware and software, integrating digital electronics, circuit theory, programming and networks.

They design everything from computer systems (PCs, supercomputers) to portable consumer electronics (such as mobile phones, and gaming consoles).

Making an impact

Computer Engineering students focus on developing hardware and industrial software, specifically embedded computer systems that we find in cars, cell phones, UAVs, rockets, microwave ovens and other appliances, radio and radar systems and medical equipment like CT scanners and X-ray machines. The range of industries in which Computer Engineering graduates are found is extensive.

Degree pathway

All Bachelor of Engineering with Honours students begin with an Intermediate Year followed by three years of study called the Professional Years. 

Programme themes

Computer Engineering is centred around embedded devices with several other specialised areas incorporated into the degree. These include:

  • Design and management
  • Signals, systems and controls, robotics
  • Networks and communications
  • Software 
  • Graphics and HCI
  • Algorithms and machine learning
  • Electronics
  • Mathematics
  • Minor in Communications and Network Engineering 

A minor is a specialist area that represents a concentration in a broad-based degree programme. By taking a set of specialist courses you would be eligible to apply for this minor and this would appear on your transcript. This would not appear on your degree certificate. The current Computer Engineering course options required for a minor are: COSC 264COSC 364COSC 418ENEL 320ENEL 400 *, ENEL 422

*The ENEL 400 Electrical and Computer Engineering Research Project must be taken with a communications or networking focus as approved by the Director of Studies.

Workshop and practical work requirements

Completing 800 hours of practical work is a degree requirement for the BE(Hons). Computer Engineering students must also complete ENEL 199 Basic Workshop Course and ENEL 198 Electrical Workshop Course within the First Professional Year.

  • Information on the workshop courses are available on student portal Learn pages for ENEL198 and ENEL199.
  • Book a workshop course through UC My Timetable.
  • See the College of Engineering's overview of practical work and industry links

For all enquiries about Computer Engineering

talk to a Student Advisor